Garage Door Spring Injury. Learn about the potential risks associated with garage door springs, how injuries occur, and essential safety measures to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Garage Door Spring Injury: Causes and Risks
Understanding Garage Door Springs
Garage door springs play a crucial role in the operation of overhead garage doors, counterbalancing the weight of the door to facilitate smooth opening and closing. There are two main types of garage door springs:
- Torsion Springs: Mounted above the garage door opening, torsion springs twist and unwind to lift and lower the door.
- Extension Springs: Found on either side of the door, extension springs stretch and contract to support the door’s weight.
Common Causes of Injury
- Spring Breakage: Over time, garage door springs can weaken or break due to wear and tear, improper maintenance, or fluctuations in temperature.
- DIY Repairs: Attempting to repair or replace garage door springs without proper training or tools can lead to accidents and injuries.
- Lack of Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance, such as lubrication and inspection, increases the risk of spring failure and related injuries.
Types of Injuries
1. Impact Injuries
When a garage door spring breaks or malfunctions, it can cause the door to slam shut unexpectedly, potentially injuring anyone in its path.
Read too: Mastering the Art of Adjusting a Chamberlain Garage Door Opener for Smooth Operation and Safety
2. Lacerations and Bruises
Handling broken or improperly tensioned springs can result in cuts, bruises, or pinching injuries from the metal components.
3. Strain and Sprain
The force required to manually open or close a garage door with a broken spring can strain muscles or lead to joint sprains.
Safety Tips for Preventing Injuries
1. Leave Repairs to Professionals
Garage door spring replacement and repair should be performed by trained technicians with the necessary tools and expertise to ensure safety and proper installation.
2. Regular Maintenance
Schedule routine inspections by a professional to check the condition of springs, cables, and other components. Lubricate moving parts to reduce friction and wear.
3. Understand Warning Signs
Be aware of signs that indicate potential spring failure, such as visible wear, rust, or unusual noises during operation. Promptly address any concerns to prevent accidents.
What to Do If an Injury Occurs
1. Seek Medical Attention
If someone is injured by a garage door spring, seek medical help immediately, especially for cuts, bruises, or impact injuries.
2. Document the Incident
Keep records of the incident, including photos of the damaged spring and any injuries sustained. This documentation may be necessary for insurance claims or legal purposes.
3. Contact a Professional Repair Service
After ensuring everyone’s safety, contact a reputable garage door repair service to inspect and repair the damaged spring and door.
Conclusion
Garage door spring injuries can pose serious risks to homeowners and their families. By understanding the causes of injuries, implementing preventive measures, and prioritizing professional maintenance and repairs, you can minimize the risk of accidents and ensure the safe operation of your garage door. Remember, safety should always be the top priority when dealing with garage door springs to protect yourself and those around you from potential harm.
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